Abstract
We introduce a method for treating soft modes within the analytical framework of the quasiharmonic equation of state. The corresponding double-well energy-displacement relation is fitted to a functional form that is harmonic in both the low- and high-energy limits. Using density-functional calculations and statistical physics, we apply the quasiharmonic methodology to solid periclase (MgO). We predict the existence of a phase transition at high pressures and temperatures.
- Received 29 October 2001
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.65.184104
©2002 American Physical Society